Recent incidents in high-rise apartments in Hanoi have brought attention to the fire hazards posed by residents' careless habits. A notable case occurred in early 2026 when residents of a building in Ha Dong were alarmed by a burning smell. They discovered smoke emanating from the 18th floor, where a malfunctioning clothes dryer had caught fire. Fortunately, the fire was contained without any injuries, but the incident raised concerns about the common practices that lead to such dangers.

According to Thanh Vinh, a resident affected by the fire, the primary oversight was leaving electrical devices plugged in while away from home. This incident cost his family over 50 million VND in damages, including the replacement of a washing machine, dryer, and air conditioning units.

Building management officials have reported similar close calls, attributing many fire risks to the tendency of residents to replicate ground-level living habits in high-rise settings. For instance, in 2021, a fire alarm was triggered when a family attempted to burn incense in their apartment after returning from a funeral. In another incident, a resident used a charcoal grill on their balcony, causing smoke to trigger alarms and necessitating an evacuation of hundreds.

Common practices that endanger safety include storing bicycles and other items in hallways, which can obstruct escape routes during emergencies. Many residents fail to recognize the risks, often justifying their actions by citing their experiences in ground-level homes.

Electrical negligence is another significant factor. In late 2025, a programmed vacuum cleaner ignited a fire after getting tangled in curtains while the owner was away. Such incidents highlight the need for awareness regarding electrical safety, as many residents forget to turn off appliances or leave them running unattended.

Experts emphasize that while technology can aid fire safety, the key to preventing incidents lies in the residents' awareness and behavior. A recent study indicated that despite understanding basic safety principles, many residents do not apply them in their daily lives. The gap between knowledge and action poses a persistent challenge in fire prevention.

To mitigate fire risks, experts suggest that consistent education, practical drills, and accountability among residents are essential. Each individual's actions in a high-rise building can significantly impact the safety of their neighbors. As noted by PGS Ngo Van Xiem, a former vice president of the Fire Prevention and Fighting University, changing habits is a gradual process that requires ongoing effort and commitment.